North Carolina DMV opens bidding to run Concord license plate agency as current contract nears expiration

Contract cycle begins for Concord’s license plate agency operator
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles is accepting contract applications for a private operator to run the Concord license plate agency, a process that typically begins when an existing agreement is approaching its end date. The current contract for the Concord office is scheduled to expire on July 14, 2026.
The agency is located at 929-D Concord Parkway South in the Clear Springs Plaza Shopping Center. The office has been owned by Old Creek, Inc., and operated by Robin Matthews since 2008.
How the license plate agency system works in North Carolina
License plate agencies provide the in-person counter service many residents associate with DMV transactions, but they operate differently from state-run DMV driver license offices. North Carolina’s DMV oversees the license plate agency network, while day-to-day operations are carried out by commissioned contractors, which may be private businesses or local governments.
Statewide, North Carolina has 131 license plate agencies providing services that include vehicle registration and title transactions, plate renewals, replacement tags and duplicate registrations.
Application deadline and submission process
Completed applications to operate the Concord license plate agency are due no later than January 30. Applications are required on specific DMV forms used for different operator types, including individual applicants, business entities and local government applicants. Submissions must be made by email; mailed applications are not accepted.
- Deadline: January 30
- Location: 929-D Concord Parkway South (Clear Springs Plaza), Concord
- Contract expiration date: July 14, 2026
- Submission method: Email only
Why the Concord opening matters regionally
The contract opening comes after recent disruption in nearby Cabarrus County service. In October 2025, the license plate agency in Harrisburg was closed following the discovery of contract violations, directing residents to surrounding offices for in-person needs. That closure increased the importance of capacity and continuity at remaining nearby agencies, including the Concord location.
License plate agencies handle vehicle-focused transactions such as titles and registration, while other services can often be completed without an office visit.
Online options remain available for many transactions
State DMV officials continue to encourage residents to use online services where available, including registration renewals and associated property tax payments. In-person visits are still necessary for certain title and registration transactions, making the operator selection process significant for maintaining customer access and processing capacity in the Concord area.